17 min read

2024: Best Cloud ERP Vendors for Manufacturing Companies

2024: Best Cloud ERP Vendors for Manufacturing Companies

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the top cloud-based ERP systems for manufacturing in 2024! If you're a manufacturing company seeking to optimize your operations and boost your bottom line, you've come to the right place.

ERP systems are vital for modern manufacturing businesses, offering a centralized platform to manage essential processes like supply chain management, financial planning, and human resources. The right ERP system can streamline your operations, enhance efficiency, and empower you to make data-driven decisions.

In this post, we'll delve into the features, pricing, and implementation processes of each manufacturing ERP system, providing you with valuable insights to help you choose the top ERP for your business. Be sure to bookmark this resource for future reference.

Manufacturing ERP Selection Criteria

As an IT or Finance leader, you're well aware of the significant role ERP systems play in today's manufacturing landscape. These systems enable organizations to integrate and manage core business processes, such as inventory management, supply chain management, financials, and more.

When choosing the best ERP system for your manufacturing business, consider these crucial criteria:

  1. Manufacturing-specific features and functionality: Seek an ERP system with robust capabilities tailored to complex manufacturing processes, including capacity planning, production scheduling, and quality control.

  2. Integration with other systems and platforms: Ensure your ERP system can seamlessly integrate with vital systems and platforms, like CRM systems and e-commerce platforms. This promotes efficient data flow and enhances overall organizational efficiency.

  3. Ease of use and implementation: Select an ERP system that is intuitive and easy for your team to grasp. Consider user-friendly interfaces, and evaluate the training and support required for your team to become proficient. Also, assess the complexity of the implementation process and whether the vendor offers professional services for a smooth transition.

  4. Scalability and flexibility for future growth: Your ERP system should grow and adapt with your business. Look for flexible, customizable systems that cater to your specific needs, as well as modular designs that allow you to add or remove functionality as required.

Involving key stakeholders in the selection process, clearly defining and prioritizing business goals and needs, and carefully planning and executing the implementation process are also essential to a successful transition.

Taking the time to thoroughly evaluate and select the best cloud based manufacturing ERP system for your manufacturing business will enhance efficiency, streamline operations, and support future growth. Use this guide to kickstart your evaluation process.

1. IFS CLOUD ERP

IFS is a leading cloud-based manufacturing ERP system that specializes in providing solutions for industries such as aerospace, automotive, construction, energy, and engineering. It offers functionality in areas such as supply chain management, project management, asset management, and service management. The system can be deployed in the cloud, on-premises, or in a hybrid environment.

IFS has a strong focus on asset and project management, which makes it a popular choice for capital-intensive industries. Its project management features include support for multi-level Work Breakdown Structures, Critical Path Analysis, Resource Scheduling, Cost Management, and Earned Value Management. Its service management module includes functionality such as work order management, scheduling, inventory management, and contract management.

IFS also offers features such as quality management, which includes support for various quality standards such as ISO 9001, and environmental management systems such as ISO 14001.

Languages supported: IFS supports multiple languages, including English, French, German, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, and many others.

Deployment: Cloud or on-premise

Total ERP Project Cost: $250,000 - $1,000,000

IFS Software Pricing Details: IFS pricing is not publicly available. Contact the vendor for more information. Implementation, customization, and maintenance costs are additional and vary based on the scope and complexity of the project.

One potential downside of IFS is that its user interface may not be as intuitive as other ERP systems, which can lead to a steeper learning curve for users. However, the system does offer extensive customization options to tailor the user experience to meet the needs of individual businesses.

IFS Analytics provides data analysis and visualization capabilities to help businesses make data-driven decisions. The system also supports integration with third-party analytics tools such as Microsoft Power BI.

Overall, IFS is a solid choice for businesses in capital-intensive industries that require strong project and asset management functionality. Its robust feature set and customization options make it a versatile solution for a wide range of businesses, and its support for multiple languages and deployment options ensure that it can meet the needs of businesses operating in various regions around the world.

2. ACUMATICA CLOUD ERP

Acumatica, founded in 2008, is a cloud-based software company offering enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions tailored for small and medium-sized manufacturers. With a global presence, Acumatica provides cloud and on-premise deployment options, ensuring a seamless fit for growing businesses.

Known for its highly intuitive user interface, Acumatica is an off-the-shelf manufacturing enterprise system that also supports integration with other tools and software. The Acumatica Marketplace offers a range of specialized solutions to enhance the ERP system, such as Container Tracking, True Commerce Pack & Ship, and Solver for corporate performance management.

Acu Process Manufacturing (APM) is a unique solution that fully integrates into the Acumatica Cloud ERP, catering to medium-to-large batch processing manufacturers. APM is designed for recipe development, recipe version control, traceability, manufacturing instructions, order management, lot control ability, and regulatory compliance.

Acumatica Cloud ERP pricing is based on chosen modules and cores, allowing for unlimited users without incurring additional costs.

Supported languages: English, French, Spanish

Deployment: Cloud or On-Premise

Acumatica Total ERP Project Cost Estimate: $75,000 - $250,000

Acumatica Software Pricing Details: Acumatica ERP pricing is determined by the required functionality rather than user licenses, resulting in a consumption-based pricing model. For comprehensive pricing and subscription plan details, contact the vendor. Note that a third-party provider is necessary for implementation and support.

3. APTEAN MES

Aptean, a global software company established in 2002, offers a range of enterprise software solutions for industries like manufacturing, distribution, and supply chain management. Their software automates and optimizes business processes to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. Aptean provides both on-premises and cloud-based deployment options and serves a diverse international customer base.

Aptean MES ERP is designed for small to mid-size product, food, and beverage manufacturers, providing support for manufacturing and production, warehouse and inventory, plant maintenance, reporting and analytics, and traceability. The system is praised for its user-friendly interface and functionality.

Key modules for businesses include:

  1. Aptean Food & Beverage ERP: Built on the Microsoft Dynamics Business Central platform, it offers quality control, advanced notifications, workflow capabilities, recipe definition, grower accounting, trade management, license plating, mobile warehousing, and more.
  2. ActivPlant MES: Collects equipment, product, and process data directly from the plant floor's automation level.
  3. Bakery ERP: Tailored to bakeries, featuring wheat or gluten tracking, supply chain insights, and service charge rate management.
  4. Additional modules: Food and Beverage OEE, Food and Beverage EAM, Food and Beverage TMS (transportation management system), Aptean CRM, Aptean Business Intelligence, Aptean EDI, and Aptean Pay.

Supported languages: English

Deployment: On-premise

Aptean Total ERP Project Cost: $75,000 - $250,000

Aptean Software Pricing Details: Subscriptions typically range from $1,500 to $2,500 per month, with costs varying based on chosen modules. Implementation fees are separate. Subscriptions are available on a month-to-month basis, with discounts for annual payments. Subscription fees scale with implementation fees, so larger implementations will have larger subscription fees.

4. EPICOR

Epicor Software Corporation, founded in 1972, offers two main ERP products, Epicor Kinetic and Epicor Industry ERP. Epicor Kinetic is designed for small to medium-sized businesses across various industries, while Epicor Industry ERP is tailored for targeted industries such as automotive or aerospace. Both software platforms share core functionalities such as financials, inventory management, manufacturing, and supply chain management. Additionally, they can be customized and integrated with other software systems.

Epicor also provides industry-specific solutions with their Industry Cloud ERP. This comprehensive, cloud-based solution meets the needs of manufacturers and distributors in industries like automotive, building products, chemicals and plastics, food and beverage, and more. Epicor Industry Cloud ERP delivers essential functions for manufacturers, including product planning and design, manufacturing and production, sales and order management, inventory and supply chain management, financials, and reporting.

Epicor's industry-specific modules include Epicor for Automotive, Epicor for Building Supply, Epicor for Distribution, Epicor for Manufacturing, and Epicor for Retail. These modules are designed to cater to the unique requirements of each industry, streamlining operations and improving efficiency.

Epicor Kinetic is a cloud-based ERP system for small to medium-sized businesses, offering a suite of modules covering financials, manufacturing, supply chain management, project management, customer relationship management, compliance, and analytics. The system is scalable and can adapt to the needs of growing businesses.

Epicor ERP supports major languages and offers both cloud and on-premise deployment options.

Epicor Total ERP Project Cost: $250,000 - $1,000,000

Epicor Software Pricing Details: For on-premise deployment, licenses start at $175/user/month, based on a named user license model. This cost doesn't include implementation, installation, maintenance, system upkeep, customization, or third-party integration costs. For cloud-based or SaaS deployment, the recurring subscription fee is per user, per month. The cost varies based on the number of named user licenses, level of access, number of applications, organization size and type, and level of customization required.

5. FISHBOWL MANUFACTURING ERP

Fishbowl is a leading ERP software provider specifically designed for QuickBooks users, catering to small to medium-sized businesses. Established in 2001, Fishbowl offers a range of features to manage inventory, manufacturing, shipping, and more. Seamlessly integrating with QuickBooks, it enables businesses to efficiently manage their financial data and operations.

With a customer base of over 100,000, Fishbowl has a strong track record of helping businesses increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve decision-making through automation and optimization of key business processes. Some of its key features include barcoding, asset management, raw materials management, cycle counting, reporting, automated ordering, and purchasing. Real-time updates on stock levels in multiple warehouses are also available.

Fishbowl is praised for its affordability, flexibility, and warehouse tracking features. However, its weaknesses include e-commerce inventory management, inventory forecasting, and limited customization in reporting. It integrates with QuickBooks and Salesforce, but custom fields in QuickBooks may not transfer seamlessly.

Fishbowl supports English and offers cloud-based deployment.

Fishbowl Total ERP Project Cost: $25,000 - $100,000

Fishbowl Software Pricing Details: Pricing starts at $4,395. SaaS user licenses are non-expiring and include unlimited access to online training videos and an unlimited phone call support period. Licenses also include one year of maintenance and support. Additional training and support options are available.

6. Infor CloudSuite

 

Infor CloudSuite is a comprehensive ERP software solution that helps streamline operations and optimize businesses. It offers features to manage financials, supply chain, production, sales, and more. With seamless integration and scalability, it efficiently manages data across departments and processes. CloudSuite Industrial, designed for small businesses, simplifies part routing, tracking, and manufacturing processes. It excels in order management, material availability, and product delivery. The software automates bidding, contracting, execution, and revenue recognition processes and allows data export for reporting and analysis.

Reviews are mixed about the UI interface; many users find it unintuitive. Take a good look at the security features if you’re considering this ERP. Some reviewers have said it cannot restrict employee access to specific modules.

Languages Supported: Arabic, Bulgarian, Danish, German, English, Finnish, French, Italian, Japanese, Dutch, Norwegian, Polish, Spanish, Swedish, Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese (Simplified)

Infor Deployment Options: Cloud or On-Premise

Infor Total ERP Project Cost: $250,000 - $1,000,000

Infor Software Pricing Details: On-premise pricing starts at $42,000 for 10 users; there is an added cost for annual maintenance and support. This upfront fee is required to own the software and IP for a fixed term. Adding more modules requires additional licenses that are valid for a fixed term.

Users are also given the option of concurrent licensing, (a user can log in multiple times up to a certain limit). Cloud-based/SaaS pricing depends on the number of users using the system per month. Installation and customization are additional costs. Subscription fees are based on the number of users and add-on user licenses.

For more in-depth information, we recommend checking out these comparison blogs featuring Infor & IFS:

- A Comparison: IFS Cloud ERP vs Infor CloudSuite
- A Comparison: IFS Cloud ERP vs Infor CloudSuite

 

7. MICROSOFT DYNAMICS ERP

MICROSOFT DYNAMICS 365 BUSINESS CENTRAL  

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central is a comprehensive ERP software specifically designed for small to medium-sized manufacturing businesses seeking a flexible and scalable solution. Developed by Microsoft, it provides a single platform with seamless integration, including native connections with LinkedIn, CRM Sales, and the broader Microsoft ecosystem, as well as flexible deployment options, either cloud-based or on-premise.

Key features for manufacturers:

  • Depth of Supply Chain Management: Offers multisite planning, shop floor management, quality management, demand forecasting, agile manufacturing, inventory management, and product configuration, while competitors may require partners depending on the depth of need.
  • LinkedIn Integration: Microsoft has a native connection between LinkedIn and CRM Sales, linking all information on profiles directly into customer records.
  • Integration with Microsoft’s Ecosystem of Solutions: Seamless integration with Microsoft Office, PowerApps, Microsoft Flow, Power BI, Cortana, and more, allowing for tasks like sending invoices via Outlook without opening Business Central ERP.
  • Trial Accounts: Prospects can access a 30-day trial account to test the solution before committing to a purchase, building confidence in their decision.

Dynamics 365 Business Central is well-suited for manufacturing businesses due to its depth of supply chain management features, seamless integration with other Microsoft products, and flexible deployment options. However, some users may find the pricing structure complex and the user interface less intuitive than other Dynamics 365 offerings.

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central supports multiple languages and offers seamless integration with other Microsoft products and popular third-party applications. Licensing options are customizable, with pricing dependent on the specific modules and features required by the business. Implementation, integrations, and customization are additional costs. The total project cost typically ranges from $50,000 to $250,000, depending on the scope and complexity of the implementation.

Customer reviews highlight how Dynamics 365 Business Central has streamlined financial processes and improved inventory management for small to medium-sized manufacturers. The software is a popular choice among businesses in the manufacturing sector, recognized for its advanced features, depth of supply chain management, scalability, and seamless integration with other Microsoft products.

MICROSOFT DYNAMICS 365 FINANCE & OPERATIONS

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations is a comprehensive ERP software designed for larger manufacturing businesses seeking advanced functionality and industry-specific depth. Developed by Microsoft, it provides a single platform with seamless integration, including native connections with LinkedIn and CRM Sales, and flexible deployment options, either cloud-based or on-premise.

Key features for manufacturers:

  • Industry Depth: Strong in manufacturing, supporting automation of discrete, process, and lean manufacturing, as well as deep vertical functionality through native add-ons and partners.
  • Supply chain management: Multi-site planning, shop floor management, quality management, and product configuration.
  • Compliance and controls: Ensures compliance and internal controls, including ISO, TS, and FDA compliance, while competitors may require partners for these areas.
  • Financial management: General ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, budgeting, and financial reporting, with fund accounting and grants management for non-profit organizations.
  • Commerce: Offers a comprehensive suite of native capabilities such as merchandising, loyalty and rebate management, POS, and e-commerce, while competitors may require partners for these features.

Additional features include sales management, project management, service management, human resources, marketing, analytics, and CRM capabilities.

Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations is well-suited for manufacturing businesses due to its advanced features, industry depth, seamless integration with other Microsoft products, and flexible deployment options. However, some users may find the pricing structure complex and the user interface less intuitive than other Dynamics 365 offerings.

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations supports multiple languages and offers seamless integration with other Microsoft products and popular third-party applications. Licensing options are customizable, with pricing dependent on the specific modules and features required by the business. Implementation, integrations, and customization are additional costs. The total project cost typically ranges from $250,000 to $1,000,000 or more, depending on the scope and complexity of the implementation.

Customer reviews highlight how Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations has streamlined financial processes and improved inventory management for large-scale manufacturers. The software is a popular choice among enterprises in the manufacturing sector, recognized for its advanced features, industry depth, scalability, and seamless integration with other Microsoft products.

8. ORACLE

ORACLE CLOUD

Oracle Cloud Manufacturing ERP is a comprehensive enterprise resource planning (ERP) software solution designed specifically for mid-to-large global manufacturers. Developed by Oracle, this ERP system offers a range of features and functionality to manage financials, supply chain, production, sales, and more. With a single platform and seamless integration, it enables manufacturers to efficiently manage data across departments and processes.

Key features for manufacturers:

  • Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence: Intelligently automates time-consuming tasks and helps companies launch new business models quickly to stay ahead of trends and competitors.
  • Centralized Work Orders: The ability to centralize and process work orders across multiple geographic locations.
  • Automated Procurement Process: Streamlines productivity by automating the entire procurement process.
  • Service Modules: Oracle Cloud Inventory, Oracle Cloud Cost Management, Oracle Cloud Quality Management, and Oracle Cloud IoT Production Monitoring.

Oracle Cloud Manufacturing ERP is suitable for large, complex organizations with multiple locations, offering advanced features, centralization, and automation. However, implementation can be lengthy, and the total project cost may be high.

The software supports multiple languages and is deployed through the cloud. The total ERP project cost typically ranges from $250,000 to $1,000,000, depending on the scope and complexity of the implementation.

Oracle ERP Cloud offers three pricing plans: Financial Reporting ($175/month), Advanced Financial Controls ($80/user/month), and Advance Access Controls ($150/user/month). These pricing details can help manufacturers determine which plan best suits their needs and budget.

Overall, Oracle Cloud Manufacturing ERP is a powerful solution for mid-to-large global manufacturers, providing advanced features, seamless integration, and the ability to manage complex operational processes. The software is well-regarded for its ability to address the unique challenges of large manufacturing businesses, while also offering a robust set of features to support growth and development.

For more in-depth information, we recommend checking out this comparison blog featuring Oracle & IFS:

- A Comparison: IFS Cloud ERP vs Oracle Cloud

ORACLE NETSUITE

NetSuite ERP is a comprehensive, cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) software solution designed for small to medium-sized manufacturers. Developed as one of the first "born in the cloud" ERP solutions, NetSuite offers support for CRM, HCM, inventory, warehouse management, financial management, order management, and e-commerce.

NetSuite ERP is an ideal choice for manufacturing businesses that have outgrown applications like QuickBooks/Fishbowl. The system offers greater visibility and flexibility into all facets of a business on a platform built to scale.

Key features for manufacturers:

  • Comprehensive Solution: Combines CRM, HCM, inventory, warehouse management, financial management, order management, and e-commerce in one platform.
  • Scalability: Built to support the growth and development of small to medium-sized manufacturing businesses.
  • Knowledgeable NetSuite Solution Providers: Partner with reputable and experienced providers for licensing and implementation assistance.

NetSuite ERP supports numerous languages, including English, Spanish, German, French, Chinese, Japanese, and more. The software is exclusively cloud-based, hosted by Oracle.

Total ERP Project Cost: $50,000 - $250,000.

NetSuite Software Pricing Details: Pricing starts at $1,999/month plus $99/user/month, with additional fees for advanced modules and performance tiers.

In summary, NetSuite ERP is a powerful and scalable solution for small to medium-sized manufacturers, offering a comprehensive set of features to support various business processes. With its cloud-based deployment and robust support for numerous languages, NetSuite ERP can help manufacturing businesses streamline their operations and achieve growth.

9. PLEX ERP

Plex ERP is a comprehensive, cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) software solution designed to help businesses streamline and optimize their operations. Developed by Plex Systems and now owned by Rockwell Automation, Plex ERP offers a range of features and functionality to manage financials, supply chain, production, sales, and more. The software is utilized by various industries, including automotive, food and beverage, precision metal forming, plastics and rubber, industrial manufacturing, high-tech electronics, and aerospace.

Key features for manufacturers:

  • Micro-Vertical Functional Focus: Supports mixed-mode manufacturing, full traceability, and advanced quality management for Food & Beverage and Health & Beauty industries.
  • IoT Capabilities: With the DATTUS acquisition, Plex is more suited to serve companies with online, hardware, and connected IoT needs.
  • Shop Floor Support: Plex was built for job shop and project-centric manufacturers that need complex functionality (especially around engineer-to-order).
  • Mobile App for Shop Floor: Plex’s mobile app supports not only ERP access but MES access for on-the-go data input by role and need, featuring native device capabilities like Bluetooth for connecting to other shop floor devices like scanners and sensors.
  • MES: Native EDI (strong in automotive).

Plex ERP is known for its user-friendly interface and ease of learning. The platform received the IDC 2021 SaaS ERP Customer Satisfaction Award, based on high customer satisfaction scores and exceptional data security ratings.

Languages supported: Plex ERP supports multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, German, French, and many others.

Deployment: Cloud only

Total ERP Project Cost: $50,000 - $250,000

Plex Software Pricing Details: Licenses start at $500 each with a single pricing plan for all users. Contact the vendor for more details. Installation and customization are additional costs.

In summary, Plex ERP is a powerful and flexible solution for businesses in various industries, offering a comprehensive set of features to support their operations. With its cloud-based deployment and robust support for numerous languages, Plex ERP can help businesses streamline their operations and improve decision-making through automation and optimization of key processes.

10. SAGE BUSINESS CLOUD X3

Sage X3 (formerly known as Sage Business Cloud Enterprise Management) is an end-to-end ERP solution that supports multiple currencies, languages, and global workplace locations. The platform provides real-time visibility into product quality and costs, while helping manage global compliance regulations. Its strong warehouse and distribution capabilities, which exceed those of NetSuite in most cases, make it a popular choice for mid-sized manufacturers and distributors.

Sage X3 has a powerful and highly granular recipe builder capability, which makes it popular in the food & beverage, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals sectors. The ERP supports multi-currency and multi-language, and unites global workplace locations. Multiple add-ons are available, and the partner offering the solution may offer its own IP that meets a prospect's functional or vertical-specific needs better.

One advantage of Sage X3 is that it can be deployed on-premise or in a partner data center, which is helpful for customers that are nervous about cloud ERP and want to move at their own pace. Sage X3 licensing prices are typically lower than NetSuite's, unless many users are required, and the ERP licenses by concurrent users which leads to more flexibility with licensing.

However, implementation can be a complex and lengthy process, and the system does not support automatic barcode scanning of inventory. Sage X3 is available in ten languages including Arabic, German, English, French, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, and Chinese (Simplified).

Deployment: Cloud or on-premise

Total ERP Project Cost: $100,000 - $250,000

Sage Software Pricing Details: Starting price $2,600/user (perpetual license); contact vendor for more details. Companies choosing an on-premise version must sign a maintenance agreement for annual support and maintenance, the cost of which is in the range of 10% and 20% of the original license fee. Cost varies based on the number of users, system architecture, implementation scope and complexity, company size, industry, additional applications, add-ons. Implementation services are not included. For the Cloud version, there is a recurring subscription per module, per user, per month. The price includes support and access to all updates and upgrades but does not include maintenance.

11. SAP

SAP Business ByDesign

SAP Business ByDesign is a cloud-only ERP solution designed for small to mid-size product manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and service industries. Its distribution, e-commerce, and automation features are well-liked by its users. The software's strength lies in its inventory management capabilities and its complete solution, offering support for finance, HR, CRM, Supply Chain Management, and more. Companies with multi-site locations will appreciate its production scheduling and visibility features across the factory, warehouse, sales, and financial teams. SAP Business ByDesign is an affordable multi-currency manufacturing ERP system.

Languages supported: 41 languages (13 standard and 28 partners translated, including simplified Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Hebrew)

Deployment: Cloud Only

Total ERP Project Cost: $250,000 - $500,000 Business By Design Software Pricing Details: SaaS subscription licenses and cloud hosting base monthly subscription fee is $1,818 for two advanced users and three core users.

SAP BUSINESS ONE

SAP Business One is a manufacturing and distribution ERP solution that provides a robust platform capable of uniting multiple workplaces in multiple countries. Its multifunctional capabilities make it a good choice for small to medium national and international global manufacturers, distributors, and suppliers. It's a highly configurable ERP, but this may lead to a long implementation time.

Languages Supported: Support for 27 languages including Portuguese, Spanish, and Chinese.

Deployment: Cloud-based or on-premise

Total ERP Project Cost: $50,000 - $250,000

Business One Software Pricing Details: For on-premise purchasers, there is a one-time license cost in the range of $795/user to $1,095/per user. The cost depends on the software version selected. Concurrent Licenses ($100) allow multiple users to use one license as long as they are not logged in at the same time. These licenses are mainly for manufacturing shift workers. No server cost is charged for on-premise deployment. The software cost does not include implementation. Customization and integration costs are not included in the software purchase. For cloud-based users, there is an annual licensing fee. For both deployment options, there is also an annual maintenance cost.

SAP S/4HANA

SAP S/4HANA is an "intelligent" ERP system that integrates all manufacturing departments nicely. Its machine learning functionality automates routine processes and frees up employees for other tasks. SAP S/4HANA is user-friendly, with exceptional analytics integrated into its system to enhance production, planning, sales, and other common manufacturing processes. A wide variety of reporting and plug-ins are available for advanced functionality, including sustainability control tower, product compliance, and product footprint management. However, it's expensive to purchase and implement, and customization may require a lengthy implementation process.

SAP S/4HANA is currently available in 39 languages, and 500+ additional language keys can be incorporated, depending on your needs.

Deployment: Cloud

Total ERP Project Cost: $250,000 - $1,000,000 SAP S/4HANA

Software Pricing Details: Like all tier 1 ERP solutions, SAP S/4HANA will most likely be a 7 or 8 figure expense depending on your business, complexity, and project scope.

For more in-depth information, we recommend checking out these comparison blogs featuring SAP & IFS:

- A Comparison: IFS Cloud ERP vs SAP ERP

12. SYSPRO ERP

SYSPRO is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system that specializes in manufacturing and distribution processes. It can be deployed in the cloud, on-premises, or as a hybrid solution. With a user-friendly interface and excellent financial and inventory modules, SYSPRO ERP offers strong support for compliance and regulatory reporting, as well as monitoring customer complaints.

SYSPRO offers strict distribution and manufacturing controls that make it an excellent choice for manufacturers. The ERP supports order management, planning and scheduling, capacity planning, supply chain, production control, manufacturing operations, inventory management, and cost control. Materials can be tracked from receipt to delivery, and the software can help identify, quarantine, and retrieve defective goods.

In addition to its manufacturing-specific processes, SYSPRO also offers custom engineer-to-order and custom estimating features. It has catch-weight capability, although it is reliant on customization and has some functionality issues. SYSPRO also has expire date on price lists and co/by products capabilities.

SYSPRO Analytics provides data access to third-party software via OLAP. It is fully integrated with Microsoft Office (Outlook Calendar), making it easy to get up to speed with. Master Production Scheduling is native in the MRP system, and in combination with Advanced Scheduling, is very powerful for prospects with advanced scheduling needs, such as those in the food and beverage industry. SYSPRO has released more artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data, bots, and Internet-of-Things capabilities under the BlueSky brand. The mobile solution allows offline access to cached data.

SYSPRO ERP is available in English, German, French, Spanish, and Dutch, and offers excellent customization options and reporting. The software's scalability and excellent integration capabilities make it a great choice for midsize to large companies. However, SYSPRO does not include payroll and HR functions, although it interfaces with most third-party systems.

Deployment: Cloud or On-Premise

Total ERP Project Cost: $100,000 - $250,000

SYSPRO Software Pricing Details: SYSPRO ERP costs begin at $199 per user, per month, with additional costs for each module added. Contact the vendor for more details on installation and customization costs.

In summary, SYSPRO is a powerful and flexible ERP solution that offers a comprehensive set of features to support manufacturing and distribution operations. With its user-friendly interface and excellent integration capabilities, SYSPRO ERP can help businesses streamline their operations and improve decision-making through automation and optimization of key processes.

What's The Best ERP For Your Manufacturing Business?

When selecting an ERP for your manufacturing business, it's important to keep in mind that each system has its own strengths and weaknesses. Some ERPs are ideal for small manufacturers, while others are designed for global corporations with complex supply chains. Additionally, the ERP you choose should meet your specific business requirements, fit within your budget, and be implemented in a timeframe that aligns with your company's objectives.

Equally important as selecting the right ERP software is finding the right implementation partner to help you navigate the process. At Astra Canyon Group, we believe that IFS Cloud ERP is an excellent choice for asset-intensive manufacturing companies with service management needs.

Our team of experts is well-versed in implementing and optimizing IFS Cloud ERP for manufacturing businesses, and we're excited to show you how it can transform your operations. Get in touch with us to learn more about how IFS Cloud ERP can benefit your business.

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